How does the theme of death in "Song of Myself" compare with the theme of death in "Calalmus"
Does Whitman contradict himself in writing about the idea of death?
Thursday, March 29, 2012
I really enjoyed mapping the motif of speech in "Song of Myself"and I think would like to explore other motifs in Whitman's work. Death is a big motif featured in his poems and he has a unique viewpoint on the matter. Death isn't presented as dark, finite and horrible like we generally view it. He has a much more zen approach to the subject that I find interesting, refreshing and hopeful.
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I think this is a really good theme to track as you progress through Whitman's text, it's one which is prevalent and slightly more complicated than most realize. Whitman seems to approach death as something to cherish, a standpoint he claims comes from his unique position as a poet and originator. One thing which might be interesting is to watch how this theme transforms from his 1855 version into his latter texts. Good idea, and good luck with the rest of your project!
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